Vector-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria and chikungunya pose persistent public health challenges, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions like India. These illnesses, transmitted by mosquito vectors-especially Aedes aegypti and Anopheles species-continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality despite being largely preventable. Their impact is exacerbated by factors such as climate change, urbanization, improper waste management and gaps in public awareness, which contribute to the spread and recurrence of outbreaks. In Himachal Pradesh, the increasing frequency of vector-borne disease reports calls for an urgent reassessment of community knowledge and preventive behavior [1-4].

The success of vector control measures relies not only on healthcare systems but also on individual and community-level practices. Effective strategies include eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using protective measures like repellents or nets and understanding the symptoms that require timely medical attention. However, misconceptions persist regarding disease transmission, prevention and treatment, often leading to delayed care and increased health risks [5-7].

The role of public education becomes even more critical in the hill state of Himachal Pradesh, where the terrain complicates vector control and healthcare access. The seasonal influx of tourists, poor water storage habits in rural households and uneven health infrastructure further aggravate the burden. While national campaigns like the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) aim to improve awareness, localized assessments are necessary to tailor interventions.

This study seeks to evaluate the level of awareness, knowledge and preventive practices related to mosquito-borne diseases among residents of Himachal Pradesh. By analyzing socio-demographic factors, understanding behavioral patterns and identifying misconceptions, this research intends to support the development of targeted public health strategies that reduce disease burden and enhance community resilience.

Study Design

A descriptive, cross-sectional, community-based online survey was conducted to assess Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) regarding mosquito-borne diseases among the adult population of Himachal Pradesh.

Study Area and Population

The survey targeted men and women aged 18 years and above residing in rural and urban districts across the state. Emphasis was placed on including individuals with varying educational, occupational and socio-economic backgrounds to ensure representativeness.

Study Duration

Data were collected over three months-from January to March 2025.

Sample Size and Sampling Technique

Assuming a 50% awareness rate (in absence of existing data), a 95% confidence level and 5% margin of error, the minimum sample size was calculated at 384. The sample was expanded to 440 to account for incomplete submissions. Convenience sampling was used and the online survey was distributed through social media, WhatsApp, health volunteers and community forums.

Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria:

• Inclusion: Adults ≥18 years, residents of Himachal Pradesh, literate in Hindi or English and willing to provide electronic consent.

• Exclusion: Incomplete responses or duplicates and participants residing outside the state.

Data Collection Tool

A bilingual (Hindi/English) structured questionnaire was developed in Google Forms, with four key sections:

• Socio-demographic data

• Twenty multiple-choice questions assessing awareness of dengue, malaria and chikungunya (symptoms, vectors, transmission and prevention)

• Behavioral practices and perceptions

• Risk awareness and community engagement

Each correct answer in the knowledge section was scored as 1. Based on total scores, knowledge levels were categorized as:

Very Good: ≥80%

Good: 60–79%

Fair: 40–59%

Poor: <40%

Data Analysis

Responses were cleaned and analyzed using SPSS v26. Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage) were used to describe participant profiles and knowledge scores.

A total of 440 participants were analyzed. The largest age group was 26–35 years (37.3%), with females comprising 53.2% of the sample. Educationally, 35.9% had completed undergraduate degrees, while 42.0% were from rural backgrounds, offering a balanced view across geographies (Table 1).

Table 1: Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Participants

Participants were evaluated on their understanding of disease transmission, breeding sites, symptoms and prevention. Questions were framed to reflect practical, real-life relevance and covered all three major diseases (Table 2).

Table 2: Knowledge and Awareness of Vector-Borne Diseases

Most participants showed a good grasp of mosquito-borne disease prevention, with 30.2% achieving “Very Good” scores. However, nearly 20% fell in the "Fair" or "Poor" knowledge brackets, warranting targeted interventions (Table 3).

Table 3: Knowledge Score Classification

This study provides critical insights into the current state of community awareness, knowledge and preventive behaviors related to mosquito-borne diseases in Himachal Pradesh. The findings reveal that although general awareness is moderately high, significant gaps in comprehensive understanding and preventive practices persist across various socio-demographic groups.

The socio-demographic data indicated that younger adults (26–35 years) and urban residents were the most represented groups. Notably, females comprised a slightly higher proportion of the sample, reflecting potentially greater health engagement in domestic roles. Educational attainment among participants was encouraging, with over 58% holding undergraduate or higher degrees, which may have positively influenced the overall knowledge levels observed.

Knowledge assessment demonstrated that most participants were well-informed about core concepts, such as the vector species responsible for dengue (Aedes aegypti), the breeding habits of mosquitoes and the importance of fogging and repellents. High correct response rates were also noted in questions related to safe water storage, mosquito activity patterns and the preventive role of mosquito nets and community sanitation. This indicates that national awareness campaigns, including those under the NVBDCP, have made a meaningful impact.

However, several misconceptions persist. For instance, nearly a third of participants were unaware of symptoms distinguishing malaria from other illnesses, or failed to recognize chikungunya’s characteristic joint pain. Only 67% correctly identified that a malaria vaccine exists, reflecting the need for up-to-date public education. Similarly, while 88% rightly dismissed the myth that mosquito bites transmit HIV, nearly 38% still had confusion around safe repellents and fogging exposure. These findings suggest that health messaging needs to evolve beyond basic awareness and delve deeper into clarifying myths and promoting consistent, evidence-based practices.

The presence of 21.6% of participants in the “Fair” or “Poor” knowledge categories further highlights disparities in health literacy. These individuals likely come from rural or less educated segments and may be more vulnerable during vector-borne disease outbreaks. Therefore, future awareness efforts must prioritize inclusivity, leveraging community health workers, local leaders and culturally relevant tools like street plays and demonstrations.

Overall, this study underscores the critical importance of sustained and localized vector control education. In the context of climate-sensitive regions like Himachal Pradesh-where changing rainfall patterns, improper waste management and seasonal tourism can all influence mosquito breeding-empowered communities are the frontline defense. Bridging remaining knowledge gaps through targeted interventions will be essential to achieving disease control and advancing public health equity.

This study highlights that while the people of Himachal Pradesh demonstrate a generally good level of awareness regarding mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria and chikungunya, critical gaps remain in their understanding of symptoms, preventive measures and transmission dynamics. With over three-fourths of the population falling into “Good” or “Very Good” knowledge categories, the foundation for effective public health behavior exists, yet the persistence of misconceptions and lack of nuanced knowledge among a significant minority poses ongoing risks. Focused, inclusive and culturally adapted health communication strategies are urgently needed-especially in rural and underinformed areas-to foster consistent preventive practices, encourage early detection and build long-term community resilience against vector-borne threats.

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